realestate

Oregon Fails Housing Affordability, Homebuilding Test

Oregon's housing shortage worsens despite lawmakers' efforts to boost homebuilding.

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regon's housing market has hit a snag, bucking the trend of lawmakers' efforts to boost homebuilding. The state's poor performance is reflected in Realtor.com's latest report card, which gave Oregon a failing grade alongside six other states. Ranked 45th out of 50, Oregon trails behind in terms of affordability and construction.

    While the US faces an estimated 4 million-unit housing shortage, the worst of it is concentrated on the coasts, leaving the South and Midwest with more affordable options for first-time buyers. Despite Governor Tina Kotek's ambitious construction goals set in 2023, forecasts indicate Oregon will fall short.

    The report card highlights a stark contrast between Oregon's struggles and other states' successes. Montana, which experienced a real estate boom during the pandemic, earned a D grade, while South Carolina took top honors with an A grade, followed closely by Iowa and Texas.

Oregon housing market struggles, homebuilding rates decline amidst affordability concerns statewide.